Gillingham are set for an enforced defensive reshuffle this weekend.

Central defender Zesh Rehman is struggling with a hamstring injury that could keep him out for the crucial Easter period.

He pulled up in the final minutes of last Saturday’s game against Millwall and boss Ady Pennock is planning for his absence.

He said: “Zesh is doubtful for the Easter period and we will again have to shuffle the pack.”

A formation change is an option, reverting back to 4-4-2, but versatile Chris Herd, who can act as a makeshift central defender, is nearing fitness following a knee injury. He could return just in time.

Bradley Dack serves the second of his two-match ban in the home game against Bristol Rovers on Good Friday but returns for Monday’s trip to Charlton.

Pennock has, meanwhile, insisted that young striker Noel Mbo remains on his radar. He has left the teenager playing for the club’s under-18s in recent weeks, where he has continued to get among the goals.

Pennock said: “We have got him involved before (in the first team) and if needed, we will call on him.

“But we have got Cody (McDonald) and I thought Joe (Quigley) and him linked up well on Saturday.

“We also have Josh Parker and Rory Donnelly. We do rate him. It is a jump to first team football but you just don’t know.”